At the start of the season, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders were not expected to make the playoffs for different reasons.
However, both teams have exceeded expectations and are now first-place contenders, with both sides making moves at the trade deadline to improve their chances.
The Steelers (6-2) brought in receiver Mike Williams and edge rusher Preston Smith to fill key positions, while the Commanders (7-2) added cornerback Marshon Lattimore. Their game on Sunday in Washington will show how the two teams match up.
“It’s a tough matchup and another good test for us,” said Commanders receiver Noah Brown. “We’re excited about it.”
While Lattimore’s status is uncertain due to a hamstring injury, Williams and Smith may play, and the Steelers are eager to see how these additions will impact their already strong season.
“We know we have to win playoff games,” said tight end Pat Freiermuth. “That was our goal coming into this year, so anytime the front office can add pieces that help us win, it’s obviously exciting. But we knew from the start we were all in to go win this thing this year.”
The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2016 but have made the postseason in two of the last three years under coach Mike Tomlin.
Washington, on the other hand, has only been to the playoffs once since 2016 and hasn’t won a playoff game since 2005. Washington’s season was expected to be a rebuilding year, especially with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the way.
However, Daniels has played so well that he’s now in the MVP conversation. General manager Adam Peters’ changes have worked out quickly, and this is Washington’s best nine-game start since 1996.
New addition Bobby Wagner, a six-time All-Pro linebacker, isn’t sure if the Steelers game is a true measuring stick, but he’s excited to play against a respected franchise.
“I think it’s more fun,” Wagner said, having played with Pittsburgh QB Russell Wilson in Seattle for a decade. “The Steelers are a really respected organization, and being able to play against somebody like that and a coach like Mike Tomlin, it’s more like, ‘OK, this game’s going to be fun.’”
The Commanders are 3-point favorites in the matchup, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.
